As the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza deepens under Israel’s brutal blockade and relentless bombardment, the Global Sumud Flotilla is preparing for a historic maritime mission to deliver urgent aid and directly challenge the illegal siege strangling more than two million Palestinians in the besieged enclave.

The flotilla – named after the Arabic word sumud (steadfastness, resilience) – represents the largest civilian-led maritime effort in history to break Israel’s 18-year blockade of Gaza. Over 50 vessels from ports across the Mediterranean, including Spain, Tunisia, Italy, and Greece, are gathering to carry life-saving humanitarian supplies: food, medical equipment, baby formula, and even water desalination units.

Organizers say the mission goes beyond aid delivery. It is a global cry for justice against what Palestinians and international human rights organizations describe as an ongoing genocide that has claimed more than 63,000 lives in less than two years.

“We Will Never Stop Until the Siege Is Broken”

Saif Abukeshek, a Palestinian activist and flotilla coordinator based in Spain, underscored the unwavering determination of participants: “No matter what happens to us, our goal and mission will never change. We will continue to mobilize people until the genocide in Gaza is stopped and the blockade is broken.”

In Tunisia, preparations are in full swing. Training sessions are underway to ready volunteers for the challenging voyage, while ships undergo maintenance and safety checks. The first fleet, which departed Barcelona on August 31, is expected in Tunis shortly, with additional vessels joining from Italy and Greece.

Despite delays caused by strong Mediterranean winds that forced the initial convoy to return to port, the participants remain undeterred. Organizers stressed that safety is paramount, but that the mission will launch at the earliest possible moment.

Civilian Fleet Faces Israel’s Military Threats

Israel has a long record of violently intercepting humanitarian flotillas. Activists are well aware of the risks. In recent months alone, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition’s Madleen and Handala missions were stopped by Israeli forces, while in May, Israeli drones attacked the Conscience vessel near Malta.

But the Global Sumud Flotilla has drawn unprecedented international backing. More than 100 current and former lawmakers have signed a joint letter urging safe passage for the ships and the creation of a humanitarian corridor to Gaza. UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese confirmed that the flotilla fully complies with international law, while Colombian President Gustavo Petro offered words of solidarity: “You have chosen the most difficult and dangerous path: that of action in the face of brutal violence. From this shore, we send you strength, words, life.”

A Mission of Nonviolence and Global Solidarity

All volunteers have signed a strict nonviolence pledge. Training in Barcelona and Tunisia has prepared participants for every possible scenario, including interception at sea. Abukeshek said the focus remains on protecting lives and ensuring the mission’s noble purpose succeeds: “This is a very noble mission. Our priority is to avoid any problems that would put people at risk. We are focusing all our attention on security and preparation to ensure success.”

Meanwhile, tens of thousands have rallied in support across Europe. In Genoa, nearly 40,000 citizens gathered to bid farewell to the departing ships, sending a clear message that the Palestinian cause resonates deeply worldwide.

A Call to the World: End the Siege, End the Genocide

As the flotilla prepares to set sail once again, it carries more than aid – it carries a message of defiance, humanity, and solidarity. For Palestinians enduring hunger, bombardment, and displacement in Gaza, the fleet symbolizes a lifeline and a reminder that they are not forgotten.

Abukeshek’s words reflect the spirit guiding this mission: “Our eyes will always be on Gaza. We will continue to mobilize people until the genocide is stopped and the blockade is broken.”

The Global Sumud Flotilla now stands as a beacon of international solidarity, preparing to confront Israel’s illegal naval blockade and insisting on the basic truth: Palestine has the right to live free from siege, occupation, and genocide. (ILKHA)